Wii For Life

According to the Entertainment Software Association,
72 percent of American households play either video or computer games and the average age of a gamer is 37. But the Association reports that in 2011, 29 percent of Americans over 50 play games – a 9 percent increase since 1999.

Since the introduction of the third bestselling console game in history, Nintendo’s Wii Fit, a new type of gamer has evolved. We are not talking about the teens that play despite warnings to finish homework or be grounded from Facebook. We are not talking about the nostalgic 30-somethings that still play for hours on end despite a resentful spouse and a house full of chores. Perhaps the last demographic thought to pick up a video-game remote has now come to play.

According to the Entertainment Software Association, 72 percent of American households play either video or computer games and the average age of a gamer is 37. But the Association reports that in 2011, 29 percent of Americans over 50 play games – a 9 percent increase since 1999.

So, why are seniors attracted to the Wii Fit and other exergames? This where it gets exciting for both research and medical professionals alike. Why are seniors opting to give up Bridge or water aerobics for a quick round of Mario Kart or Wii Yoga? Does it really help increase fitness and rehabilitation from baby boomers to 70s on up?

The University of Aberdeen, Scotland decided to investigate. The University, along with NHS Grampain, researched if Wii Fit would actually improve the balance of those with increased age and prone to falls. Research was conducted with volunteers over 70 that have had at least one fall in the past year. The Wii Fit balance board in particular was used. Sessions included a warm up and 30 minutes of balance games. Dr. Marie Williams, Specialist and Registrar at Woodend Hospital explained the goal of the study was to establish the feasibility and acceptability of the Wii-Fit within this age group and to see it’s potential to improve balance.

The conclusion: “We found there was the potential to improve balance with an improvement in formal balance scores at four weeks …” Williams says further research is needed to determine if Wii Fit can be used as a Wii-habilitative tool in those prone to falls. Interestingly, a research fellow at the college originally proposed the study be conducted with costly equipment. When none of the grants would fund the equipment, the decision was made to try it with the Wii Fit.

Even Nintendo recognizes the new niche consuming their product in their marketing campaign. At wiifit.com, several of the Wii models are distinguished retirees artfully finishing a golf swing on the balance board. Nintendo has also affordably priced the Wii Fit Plus at $99.99. Wii fans that already own Wii Fit can purchase the upgrade kit for just $19.99. However, other Internet savvy and bargain shoppers can easily find other deals online.

Seniors looking to purchase a plethora of games for their Wii can even search sites for those best for balance and brain stimulation. Websites, such as uspharmd.com rank the best video games for senior health according to medical experts. Among the top Wii games recommended seniors include: Wii Golf, Wii Bowling, Tiger Woods’ PGA Tour ’09, Links Crossbow Training and Mario Kart Wii. Others include Wii Hooked!; Tennis; Boxing; Wii Play; and favorite, Punch Out!. Wii Balance games testing stability include: Ski Slalom, Ski Jump, Soccer Heading and Table Tilt. And there are other Wii games that can strengthen balance as well: Yoga, Rhythm Kung Fu and Strength Training – there’s even Wii Hula Hoop.

Physician at UT Health Science Center and Health & Fitness Specialist with the American College of Sports Medicine David DiPaolo, MD, explained exergames such as Wii Sports and Wii Fit not only help with balance, but are good supplemental fitness activities and are a great way to get exercise in your home. And while the Wii alone is not enough to get someone in their 20s in shape or be significant cardio training, it can be an excellent fall-prevention aid. He attests that many aging Americans forget to incorporate balance training (recommended for seniors by both the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association) into their fitness routine, and the Wii Balance Board is a potential solution. “Balance training is a global recommendation for those over 65 as a specific measure to reduce the risk of falls which can lead to hip and other fractures. I think [using the Wii balance board] is a fun way to do balance training,” he said.

And exergames, such as Wii, may serve another function in areas other than balance and fitness. Jamie Huff, Community Relations Coordinator for the Alzheimer's Alliance of Smith County explains that they know that Wii games are used for mental and social stimulation at some local residential Senior Care Communities. The residents do not have to understand the technology to enjoy the games. Even individuals with dementia can play the Wii. She explains that those with dementia live in the moment, and while they are playing the game it seems like they are at a bowling alley. It can also help people with dementia tap into their long-term memory. Huff said, “As the disease progresses, memory regresses. So, being at a “bowling alley” with friends or “on the golf course” touches on a long-term memory that is familiar and fun.”

She reports that several senior care facilities in Smith County use Wii to entertain their residents and patients. Some of the more popular games at used in Memory Care residential settings include Wii bowling, Wii Tennis and Wii Golf.  Residents enjoy the stimulation to the senses from touch to sight and hearing – as well as improvement in hand/eye coordination and range of motion.  Wii can also be used in the home setting along with a family or professional caregiver initiating and helping with play.”

Outside of all the other potential benefits to playing Wii games, anyone that has ever had a “Wii Party” will attest that it is a fun and entertaining game in any group setting. And fun translates to any age.

“It is socially stimulating because a friend may be playing along as the opponent and the Activity Director is there to keep the game going and cheer lead,” Huff explained. “It's OK if the person playing doesn't 'do it right.' Just as long as they are having fun and their mind is being stimulated.”